Adrian Mutu Aims Goal Scoring Challenge at Ibrahimovic

The enigmatic Mutu has laid down a friendly challenge to IbrahimovicMario Carlini / Iguana Press/Getty Images

The soon to be AC Ajaccio striker Adrian Mutu has sent a challenge to his friend Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Mutu claims he will score more Ligue 1 goals this season then Ibrahimovic.

In an interview that has been reported thru various outlets including soccerway.com, Mutu was quoted as saying:

"I know Zlatan well, he's a good friend. I'll set him a challenge to see who scores more. Even though he's in the better team, it's no problem. I'd bet on myself"

Mutu was a teammate of Ibrahimovic at Juventus. The Romanian striker had been plying his trade most recently at Cesena, but was able to negotiate a mutual termination of his contract (as reported by Ligue1.com). With the contract release, Mutu is expected to complete a move to Ajaccio by early next week.

Talking trash in sports is nothing new, but to see this type of friendly challenge aimed at Ibrahimovic could add even more excitement to the Ligue 1 season. With the hype surrounding PSG this season, Ligue 1 is looking to cash in on the extra attention in an attempt to raise the profile of the league.

If Mutu can give Ibra good competition in the goal tally, this story could shed more light on one of France's lesser known clubs.

Ajaccio's fans are hoping the mercurial Mutu can make good on his boast. If he even comes close, Ajaccio will be in for an unforgettable season.

On the other side of things, PSG fans can hope this may push Ibra to a whole new level. Nothing would be as damaging to a reputation like Ibra's as having his Ligue 1 coming out party crashed by the Romanian.

With a little bit of luck, Ligue 1 should see plenty of fireworks from this sideshow.